O Say Can You See! Baltimore's Star-Spangled Summer Is Set
BALTIMORE (WJZ)—American history comes to life in Baltimore this summer as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of our national anthem.
Mary Bubala has more on the big plans.
Organizers unveiled a summer long list of events to get involved and re-live history close to home.
The Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corps kicks off an event to announce how our city will celebrate the 200th anniversary of our national anthem.
"Starting in June, Fort McHenry will unleash 'Fort! Flag! Fire!,' an engaging program that will combine living history from our own Fort McHenry Guard, ranger-led programs from the ranks of the green and gray staff and special events, where we will host guard military units and bands from modern and armed services such as the U.S. Army and Navy," said Tina Cappetta, superintendent of the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine.
Organizers say the calendar is packed with events, activities and exhibitions all summer long.
Most of the events will take place at Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the National Anthem.
"This ain't no Williamsburg. This is better. This is a real American city, and it's time to celebrate," said Bill Pencek, executive director of the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission.
And all the summer activities lead up to our city's commemoration in September of the bicentennial of the War of 1812.
It was the valiant defense of the star-shaped Fort McHenry against the British Navy that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the "Star-Spangled Banner."
"That history, that feeling, that was inspired by men and women who fought right here," said Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.
The event kicks off June 28. Organizers expect up to a million people, including tourists from across the world, to take part in one of the many events between June and September in Maryland.
To learn about all the events this summer and in September, click here.
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